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climate change bill

left: floods in Bangladesh are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change (photo: Din Muhammad Shibly/RDRS-ACT International)
right: using renewable energy is one way to reduce carbon emissions 

Tougher carbon targets needed,
says Methodist Church

The Climate Change Bill is being discussed in the Lords right now.


This is an exceptional opportunity for legislation to really impact on carbon emissions. But only if the targets set are ambitious enough.


The Joint Public Issues Team (JPIT) of the Methodist Church, Baptist Union and United Reformed Church is calling for tougher targets in its Climate Change Bill briefing.


The bill proposes statutory targets to reduce carbon emissions by 60% by 2050. But reductions of 80% by 2050 are being called for by JPIT, MRDF and many other campaigning groups and charities.


The bill is of particular significance to MRDF because the terrible impact of climate change is already disproportionately affecting people in the poorest countries.


Calls for higher reduction targets are based on wide-spread expert opinion and scientific research, including that of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The Government is also being urged to include the aviation and shipping industries, which are not covered by the bill as it stands.


The success that the Jubilee Debt Campaign achieved by mobilising massive popular support has shown that, with sufficient backing from the public, government can take tough action.


Say it loud and say it NOW
Make yourself heard, help our government seize this opportunity, and do it now, before the bill is voted on in the Commons.


To support a robust Climate Change Bill and reduced carbon emissions:

  • Write to or email your MP – tell them you support 80% reductions by 2050, including aviation and shipping. Download the JPIT briefing for information on what to say and get your MP's contact details here.

  • Spread the word – make sure your friends and family know this is a critical time and are lobbying their MPs as well.

  • Do your bit – words are no good if they are not backed up by actions; are you doing all you can to reduce your own carbon footprint? Have you signed up for renewable energy, for example? Sign up with Good Energy and MRDF will get a £20 donation too!

MRDF is a member of the Stop Climate Chaos coalition. 
Visit their I count website for other practical ways to take action.